'Grid kids' replace 'grid girls' in Formula 1

"Grid kids" are replacing "grid girls" in Formula One as the motorsport series makes changes ahead of the new season

PARIS — "Grid kids" are replacing "grid girls" in Formula One as the motorsport series makes changes ahead of the new season.

F1 says youngsters from motorsport clubs, who are already competing in karting, will stand alongside drivers on the grid before races this season.

The announcement Monday comes after the series last week ended the long-standing practice of using women on the grid, and on the podium with the top three drivers, because it no longer fits in with Formula One's values and societal norms.

The latest initiative is a joint venture by the FIA — motorsport's governing body — and F1's owners.